South Africa is a dynamic nation that is working hard to move on from its turbulent past and towards a bright future. PhD students will have lots to enjoy and experience across this multicultural country.
Culture and tourism
Table Mountain is the iconic backdrop to Cape Town, one of South Africa’s three political centres. This city has a growing reputation for art and design, bolstered by the presence of the Zeitz MOCAA Museum – housed in a grain silo that was once the tallest building in South Africa.
Johannesburg, located in the north of the country, is South Africa’s most populous city. Johannesburg is home to several historical sites of incredible national significance, including Constitution Hill, a former prison complex that pays tribute to the struggle for democracy in South Africa. The Apartheid Museum, also in Johannesburg, offers an essential window into apartheid-era oppression in South Africa.
Sport and leisure
South Africa is famously sports-mad, with particularly strong rugby and cricket teams. Although the national team has enjoyed less success in football, South Africa hosted the men’s World Cup in 2010 and football is perhaps the most popular sport nationwide.
If you want to enjoy the great outdoors, South Africa is definitely the place for you, providing an endless range of opportunities for physical activity. Surfing off the coast of Cape Town (just watch out for sharks!), hiking Table Mountain or exploring the stunning Drakensberg region – there’s something for everyone.
And, of course, South Africa is the perfect place to go on a ‘Big Five’ safari, witnessing elephants, lions, rhinos, leopards and buffalos in their natural habitat.
Food and drink
South African cuisine absorbs many influences from the country’s past, including Dutch, Indian and Malay flavours and dishes. South Africa is also world-famous for its vineyards, which can be found across the country and usually offer tours for thirsty visitors.